Senate Rejects Bills to Pay Federal Workers Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Thursday rejected two partisan bills aimed at paying federal workers during the ongoing government shutdown, affecting numerous employees who are expected to miss their first full paycheck this week.

The GOP proposal, known as the “Shutdown Fairness Act,” introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), would provide pay to federal employees who are still on the job without compensation. It failed with a vote of 54-45, falling short of the 60 votes needed to advance.

Johnson expressed disappointment, saying, “We’re basically in agreement here,” and indicated a willingness to accommodate Democrats’ concerns over furloughed workers. “I’m actually quite hopeful — I think we can fix it over the weekend,” Johnson added.

Conversely, Democrats opposed the Republican measure, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer labeling it as a tactic to give President Donald Trump too much power over federal employees’ pay. Schumer stated, “We will not give Donald Trump a license to play politics with people’s livelihoods,” emphasizing the need to pay both excepted and furloughed employees.

Democratic alternatives were also rejected. The “True Shutdown Fairness Act” would have paid a broad range of federal employees, including those who are furloughed and federal contractors. However, Republicans argued that this proposal could complicate the funding debate.

The ongoing impasse in Congress has left many federal workers in uncertainty, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stating that air traffic controllers and other essential personnel are required to report for duty without pay. “I cannot guarantee you your flight is going to be on time,” he said, emphasizing the burden on employees who are struggling financially.

As the shutdown continues into its third week, lawmakers have called on both parties to find a solution, urging an end to the political stalemate. Federal employees remain anxious as they anticipate missing critical paychecks, further complicating their financial situations.